Brake Repairs in Paignton

Paignton is a seaside resort with a pier, a harbour, a zoo and a seafront that fills up quickly when visitors arrive. Locals spend a lot of time creeping along in traffic, braking, pulling away and braking again, and that routine is exactly what wears out pads and discs.

At Automaster we work from Longcombe Cross near Totnes, and drivers from Paignton regularly bring us brake, suspension and steering jobs. We also hear from people in Torbay, Brixham and Churston, so wherever you are in the bay, you are welcome to ask.

Why do my brakes squeal in stop-start traffic?

Squealing at low speed is often a sign the friction material has worn thin, or that the pads have glazed and the discs have developed a lip. Sometimes it is nothing more than dust or moisture after the car has stood still, but persistent noise deserves a look.

Grinding is more serious. It usually means the pad has gone and metal is touching metal, which damages the discs and makes the job larger. If you hear it, arrange a check as soon as you can.

• High-pitched squeal on light braking
• Grinding or scraping sound
• Brake dust building up unevenly

How do you work out what brake work is needed?

We inspect the pads, discs, calipers, hoses and fluid, then look at how the car behaves. A vibration through the pedal often points to warped or uneven discs, while pulling to one side can indicate a sticking caliper or an issue with a hose.

What affects the final bill is the car, the parts it needs and whether pads and discs on both sides are being replaced. We would rather talk through the details with you when you ask for a quote than guess.

Suspension, shock absorbers and wheel bearings after a busy summer

Seafront roads and speed humps take their toll. Clunking over bumps, a bouncy ride, or a car that dives forward under braking can all point to tired shock absorbers or springs. Uneven tyre wear is another telltale sign.

A growl from a wheel that rises with speed is often a bearing. Replacement involves removing the hub assembly, and the exact work depends on the make and model, so we confirm what is needed on inspection.

Steering feels heavy or loose: what should I do?

Heavy steering at low speed can mean a power steering fault, while play in the wheel or a wandering car can come from worn track rod ends or other steering parts. Either way, steering faults can become unsafe quickly.

If the ABS light is also on, or you notice a change in the way the car turns in, mention that when you contact us. It helps us tell whether one fault is behind several symptoms.

Do you cover Paignton, and where is the garage?

We do. Automaster is at Longcombe Cross near Totnes, and Paignton drivers are among those who come to us, along with people from Torbay, Brixham, Churston and Totnes itself.

Ask for a quote first and tell us about the symptoms. If you are not sure whether the car is safe to drive, describe what you feel and we will advise.